Food-loving travelers will find Queenstown’s wine and culinary tours both practical and memorable. My favorite is the full-day Central Otago experience – it packs in four excellent wineries and includes a trust-the-chef lunch that never disappoints. I’m also impressed by the 6.5-hour premium tour featuring an atmospheric wine cave visit and barrel-cooked lunch.
For those short on time, the 5-hour wine sampler hits three top wineries with 15-16 tastings and a seasonal lunch that perfectly matches the wines. Each tour combines stunning mountain views with knowledgeable guides who really know their stuff.
Let’s explore these food and wine adventures worth your time and money.
Key Points
- Central Otago Food & Wine Tour offers guided winery visits, trust-the-chef lunches, and expert insights from wine-certified guides.
- Queenstown: Full-Day Central Otago Food & Wine Tour provides tastings at boutique wineries, a gourmet winery lunch, and knowledgeable guides.
- 5-Hour Wine and Food Sampler Tour showcases a gourmet, seasonal lunch paired with wines at three acclaimed wineries in the Queenstown region.
- Gourmet Food and Wine Tour includes visits to four premium vineyards, a tour of Australasia’s largest wine cave, and a wine-barrel cooked lunch.
- Scenic and Culinary Highlights of Queenstown tours offer opportunities to explore the Gibbston Valley, Cromwell, and Arrowtown with knowledgeable local guides.
Full-Day Central Otago Food & Wine Tour
Though Queenstown is renowned for its stunning natural scenery, the city’s food and wine scene is equally impressive. One of the best ways to experience it’s the Full-Day Central Otago Food & Wine Tour. Rated 4.9 out of 59 reviews, this tour is recommended by 98% of travelers.
During the tour, guests will visit four unique wineries, where they’ll enjoy tastings and a guided tour of a barrel room and vineyard. The highlight is a trust-the-chef lunch at a renowned location, followed by a shared cheese platter to cap off the day.
The tour is led by a wine-certified guide who shares their expertise throughout the experience. Convenient pickup locations around Queenstown make it easy to join the tour, which departs at 9:30 am.
A minimum of 4 adults is required, with a maximum of 12 travelers per group. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is generally suitable for most guests, except for pregnant travelers. This food and wine experience showcases the best of Central Otago’s culinary delights.
Read our full review: Full-Day Central Otago Food & Wine Tour Review
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Queenstown: Full-Day Central Otago Food & Wine Tour
The Full-Day Central Otago Food & Wine Tour is one of the best ways to experience Queenstown’s renowned food and wine scene.
Over 6.5 hours, this small-group tour takes guests to multiple award-winning wineries and gourmet food producers in the picturesque Central Otago region. Highlights include tastings at three boutique wineries, a gourmet lunch at a winery restaurant, and opportunities to sample local cheeses, meats, and produce.
The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who provide insight into the region’s rich winemaking heritage and culinary culture. With pickup and drop-off available, the tour offers a hassle-free way to explore Queenstown’s gastronomic delights.
At $170.17 per person, it’s a great value for the full-day experience. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply appreciate fine food, the Queenstown: Full-Day Central Otago Food & Wine Tour is a must-do activity during your visit.
Read our full review: Queenstown: Full-Day Central Otago Food & Wine Tour Review
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5-Hour Wine and Food Sampler Tour From Queenstown
What better way to learn about Queenstown’s renowned wine and food scene than the 5-Hour Wine and Food Sampler Tour? This highly-rated tour, boasting a 99% recommendation from 200 travelers, takes you on a delicious journey through the Gibbston Valley region.
You’ll be treated to a gourmet, seasonal lunch paired with three wines at each of the three wineries you’ll visit: Kinross, Mt. Rosa, and Gibbston Valley.
Along the way, you’ll enjoy engaging commentary and storytelling from your knowledgeable local guide, who’ll share insights into the local winemaking process. With a maximum of 14 travelers, you’ll have an intimate and personalized experience.
The tour includes a variety of wine tastings, amounting to approximately 15-16 samples, allowing you to discover the region’s diverse offerings.
Scenic views of the Gibbston Valley will provide the perfect backdrop to this immersive food and wine adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned oenophile or a curious foodie, this tour is sure to delight.
Read our full review: 5-Hour Wine and Food Sampler Tour From Queenstown Review
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Gourmet Food and Wine Tour With Lunch and Wine Tastings
Elevate your Queenstown food and wine experience with the Gourmet Food and Wine Tour. This 6.5-hour small-group tour takes you on a gourmet journey through the region’s premier vineyards and culinary highlights.
Starting from $170.17 per person, you’ll visit 4 premium vineyards in Gibbston, Cromwell, and Bannockburn basin, with the opportunity to tour Australasia’s largest wine cave and enjoy a wine and cheese pairing.
The highlight of the tour is a wine-barrel cooked lunch featuring 5 tasting dishes paired with exquisite wines. You’ll also get to explore historic Old Cromwell town and Arrowtown, and take in the scenic drive through the Kawarau Gorge.
With an experienced driver-guide, all wine tastings, and hotel pick-up and drop-off included, this tour offers excellent value for money. Based on 45 reviews, it boasts an impressive 4.8/5 overall rating, with praise for knowledgeable guides and exceptional service.
Read our full review: Gourmet Food and Wine Tour With Lunch and Wine Tastings Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Group Size for These Food Tours?
The minimum group size for these food tours is typically between 2 to 4 people. Many tour operators require a minimum group size to ensure a personalized and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Are the Tours Accessible for People With Dietary Restrictions?
The tours generally accommodate those with dietary restrictions, though it’s best to check with the tour operators beforehand. They’ll work to provide suitable options and ensure an enjoyable experience for all participants.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for These Tours?
Many food tour companies offer discounts and packages, such as group rates and student/senior pricing. Some also provide combo deals with other local attractions. It’s best to check each tour provider’s website for their specific discount and package options.
How Do I Get to the Starting Point of the Tours?
Many tour companies provide transportation to the starting point of their food tours. Customers can often request pick-up from their hotel or a central location. Some tours may even include round-trip transportation in the overall ticket price.
Can I Customize the Itinerary or Activities of the Tours?
Yes, many tour operators allow guests to customize their food tour itineraries and activities. Clients can often choose which restaurants, cafes, or food producers they’d like to visit based on their interests and preferences.
The Sum Up
Queenstown offers a range of exceptional food and wine tours. Visitors can explore the Central Otago region, sample local produce, and enjoy tastings at world-class wineries. These tours provide a comprehensive gourmet experience, with knowledgeable guides and opportunities to learn about the region’s rich culinary heritage. Whether it’s a full-day tour or a shorter sampler, Queenstown’s food and wine experiences are not to be missed.